In a significant turn of events, VK Pandian, the Nabin Odisha & 5T Chairman, officially embraced the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in a formal ceremony attended by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and key BJD leaders. This move signifies a strategic alliance with far-reaching implications for the political landscape of the state.
A member of the 2000 IAS officer batch, VK Pandian’s journey commenced as the sub-collector in Dharmagarh, Kalahandi district, before he rose to prominence upon joining the Odisha Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) in 2011. Widely regarded as the trusted confidant of CM Naveen Patnaik, Pandian, originally from Tamil Nadu, initially served as an IAS officer in the Punjab cadre. His trajectory took a significant turn following his marriage to Odia IAS officer Sujata Rout, securing the coveted Odisha cadre.
Pandian’s imprint on Odisha politics gained momentum during his extensive tenure as the private secretary to Chief Minister Patnaik, a role he held for over a decade, wielding considerable influence within the state’s power corridors.
After the 2019 Assembly polls, VK Pandian’s profile expanded further as he assumed the position of 5T Secretary. This initiative, designed to enhance transparency and collaboration in government departments, empowered Pandian to actively participate in various government projects. His office became a sought-after audience for ministers and MLAs, solidifying his role as a crucial intermediary in government affairs.
Nevertheless, controversy surrounds Pandian, particularly concerning his extensive statewide tours employing the state chopper. Opposition parties have raised concerns, alleging that these tours resembled rallies of the ruling BJD, prompting questions about their nature and intent. VK Pandian’s decision to align with the BJD injects a political dimension into his already influential role in the state of Odisha.